India and Bhutan are exploring the use of inland waterways through Assam to improve Bhutan’s access to regional and international markets. 

• The Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways held discussions with Bhutan’s Infrastructure and Transport Minister, highlighting the Brahmaputra and the Jogighopa terminal as potential gateways for Bhutanese cargo.

Key Developments

• NW-2: The Brahmaputra has been designated NW-2, covering approximately 891 kilometres between the Bangladesh border and Sadiya in Assam. 
  • It supports cargo transportation, passenger services and tourism.
• Jogighopa Inland Waterways Terminal: Connected to the Jogighopa Multimodal Logistics Park, the terminal is designed to integrate river transport with road and other logistics networks. 
• Potential River Connectivity: The two countries discussed the possible integration of the Manas and Sankosh rivers with existing national waterways to expand cargo movement opportunities.
• Skill Development: Discussions also covered maritime and inland waterway training opportunities for Bhutanese youth at the Centre of Excellence being developed in Dibrugarh.

Significance for India and Bhutan

• For Bhutan, the proposed connectivity could provide an additional freight route, diversify transport options and improve access to larger markets.
• For Assam, greater cargo movement could generate opportunities in warehousing, logistics, trade and employment.
• For India, inland waterways can offer a potentially cost-effective and energy-efficient alternative to road transport for suitable bulk cargo.

Relevant Government Framework

• Inland Waterways Authority of India Act, 1985: It created Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) in 1986. 
  • It is an autonomous organization under the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, responsible for development, maintenance and regulation of National Waterways (NWs). 
  • Its headquarter is located in Noida, Uttar Pradesh, with regional offices in major hubs like Guwahati, Patna, Kochi, Bhubaneswar, and Kolkata.
• National Waterways Act, 2016: It has declared 111 inland waterways as ‘NWs’. 
• Inland Vessels Act, 2021: It replaced the over 100 years old Inland Vessels Act, 1917 to facilitate harmonised regulation of the inland vessels and their safe navigation. 

Exam Hook: Key Takeaway

The proposed India–Bhutan waterway link highlights Assam’s strategic role in connecting the Northeast with neighbouring countries through multimodal trade infrastructure.

Prelims Practice Question

Consider the following statements:

1. National Waterway-2 is located on the Brahmaputra River.
2. The Jogighopa Inland Waterways Terminal is connected to a multimodal logistics park.
3. The Inland Waterways Authority of India functions under the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways.

Which of the statements given above are correct?

A. Only 1 and 2

B. Only 2 and 3

C. Only 1 and 3

D. 1, 2 and 3

Answer: D. 1, 2 and 3

One-line wrap: Developing the Brahmaputra–Jogighopa trade corridor could strengthen India–Bhutan economic ties while expanding Assam’s role as a regional logistics hub.